Volusia Watermen's Association

06/01/2026

**WARNING: SENSITIVE TOPICS INCLUDING DEATH**

On Monday, 6/1/26, Lifeguards were first on scene to a pickup truck that crashed into a beach access toll booth, the booth was occupied at the time of the incident.

The truck then continued on the beach and into the ocean.

Despite rescue efforts by first responders, the toll attendant was pronounced dead at the scene.

The Volusia Watermen send their sincere thoughts and condolences to those affected by this tragic loss of life.

05/30/2026

05/25/2026

Today, we remember and honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving our country. Their courage, selflessness, and dedication to protecting others will never be forgotten.

As we spend time with family and friends this Memorial Day, we pause to reflect on the true meaning of this day and pay tribute to those who gave everything for our freedom.

From all of us at the Volusia County Beach Safety Ocean Rescue Division, thank you to our fallen heroes and the families who carry their legacy forward. 🇺🇸

05/24/2026

**WARNING: SENSITIVE TOPICS INVOLVING CHILD DEATH**
On Saturday 5/23/26, our lifeguards were first on scene to a motor vehicle accident involving a toddler who was run over by a vehicle driving in the traffic lane. Upon arrival, units from VCBS Volusia County Beaches, NSBFD New Smyrna Beach Professional Firefighters, and VSO Volusia Sheriff's Office were all working together to administer lifesaving efforts. The patient was transported and was pronounced deceased at the hospital.

What’s often overlooked is that as a first responder, we respond to these incidents, act accordingly, and then are expected to continue on with our duties while carrying the weight of what they just experienced.

Our thoughts and condolences are with the family and all those affected by this heartbreaking incident.

05/16/2026

Gearing up for the weekend ahead! Rip currents were pulling today. Stay safe, SWIM NEAR A LIFEGUARD!

05/09/2026

More than just “a summer camp”.

05/02/2026

**WARNING. SENSITIVE TOPIC AND VIDEOS**

On May 1st at approximately 7:35 p.m., lifeguard units responded to a reported drowning near the Main Street Pier. Responding units quickly entered the water and made contact with one individual caught in a rip current. That individual advised rescuers that another person was still in the water and may have gone under.

Lifeguards immediately initiated a “Code X” response, signaling a missing person in the water. Units began a strategic search and were able to quickly locate and retrieve the missing person from the ocean approximately 80–100 yards offshore. CPR was initiated, and full lifesaving efforts continued. A pulse was regained at the hospital, but sadly the victim later passed away.

The first individual rescued was treated for exhaustion and also transported to a nearby hospital.

It should be noted that our full-time lifeguards had completed refresher training on this exact “Code X” scenario the week prior. This incident highlights the importance of continuous training throughout the entire year.

It should also be noted that there were no lifeguards staffed in that area at the time of the incident due to being outside of staffed tower hours.

Swim near a lifeguard.

04/25/2026

First weekend of Jeep Beach 2026

*WARNING: SENSITIVE TOPICS*

Rescue/Victim count total:
13 rescues and 22 victims

Patrol units and tower guard were first on scene for a CPR in progress on the pool deck of the Shores resort and spa. Witnesses stated the PT went underwater to hold is breath and never came back to the surface. Bystanders nearby pulled the pulseless PT from the water and initiated CPR. An AED was placed on the PT along with inserting an IGEL airway. After completing one cycle of CPR a family member stated the pt might have taken narcotics. Narcan was administered and CPR was continued. Half way through second cycle of CPR patient showed signs of ROSC. IGEL airway was removed, patient opened eyes, and was speaking.

Several zones hit driving capacity for vehicles throughout the weekend. These numbers reflect vehicles driven through access points and does not count beach patrons staying in hotels, parking in off beach parking lots, or the number of people in each vehicle. Vehicle entries numbers by the day throughout the county⬇️
Friday: 5403
Saturday: 9839
Sunday: 8567

As always, SWIM IN FRONT OF A LIFEGUARD!

04/22/2026

Link is in the caption! Apply today! Applications close next Thursday 4/30.

Volusia County Beach Safety is hiring! Apply today for the Full-Time Ocean Rescue Lifeguard position 🌊🛟

https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/volusiaco

01/22/2026

All while temperatures were in the 50s. Incidents like this don’t discriminate against weather, time of year, or perceived risk.